Mediterranean restaurant coming to Seven Corners

The main entrance of Emessa on Leesburg Pike.

Emessa, a Mediterranean restaurant, is set to open Nov. 24 in the spot formerly occupied by the Seven Corners Pub at 6315 Leesburg Pike.

The space is being totally remodeled and will feature a hookah bar, live entertainment, and alcohol, as well as a menu featuring Middle Eastern food with a Syrian twist, such as shawarma and mixed grill, along with burgers and other American staples.

The rear entrance on Castle Place features an outdoor dining area.

Syrian food is very much like that from Lebanon, says Emessa owner Ezza Achour, a Syrian who is here on a business visa and whose sons are U.S. citizens. Emessa is the historic name of Homs, a city in Syria, which has suffered extreme damage and deprivation during the Syrian civil war.

Emessa is hosting a big party on Nov. 24 featuring Syrian singing star Housam Jnaid and Osama Nemeh of California, for the show. Tickets are $200.

Achour hopes to have live entertainment at Emessa every Friday and Saturday night to start and might add other days later.